Maui officials seek DNA samples from surviving family to identify remains.
Hawaii Officials Urgently Seek DNA Samples from Survivors of Devastating Wildfires
In the aftermath of the destructive wildfires that ravaged Maui two weeks ago, Hawaii officials are urging surviving residents to provide DNA samples. Approximately 1,000 people remain unaccounted for, and the authorities are working tirelessly to identify and locate their loved ones.
According to the Associated Press, Maui Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Martin expressed concern over the low number of family members who have come forward to provide DNA samples. Only 104 families have contributed samples to the family assistance center, despite the FBI’s unconfirmed list of 1,000 to 1,100 missing individuals in Maui.
Julie French, leading the efforts to identify remains through DNA analysis, emphasized the importance of locating and identifying the missing loved ones. Martin assured the public that any DNA samples provided would not be used for law enforcement purposes, and individuals would not be questioned about their immigration status.
Struggles in Compiling a List of the Missing
Police Chief John Pelletier revealed the challenges his team faces in compiling an accurate list of the missing. Many individuals are only identified by partial names, and there are instances of name duplication. Pelletier urged anyone with an unaccounted-for family member to provide DNA samples and file a report, emphasizing the need for accurate information to aid in the search and identification process.
Uncertainty Surrounding the Number of Missing Children
Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen estimated that around 850 people, including an unknown number of children, remain missing. However, authorities have faced criticism for their lack of details regarding the exact number of missing children. Reporters pressed Bissen for answers during a press conference, but he was unable to provide any assurance or estimates.
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Bissen’s response to the reporters’ questions led to further controversy, with accusations that he was avoiding addressing the concerns of the community.
MAUI FIRES — Reporters confront Mayor of Maui about refusing to address reports of missing children
“You’ve been the worst mayor.” pic.twitter.com/TyIUc2Uh16
— The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) August 20, 2023
Other Hawaiian authorities have also faced criticism for their response to the wildfires. Maui Emergency Management Agency Chief Herman Andaya chose not to activate the island’s emergency sirens during the deadly fire, citing their typical use for tsunami warnings. Andaya resigned shortly after explaining his decision, citing “health reasons.”
The Hawaii Commission on Water Resource Management was accused of delaying a request for additional water to fight the fire due to the need for consultation with local farmers. The agency’s former leader, a “water equity advocate,” was reassigned to a different division following the fires.
Hawaiian Electric is under scrutiny for allegedly prioritizing the development of its green energy network over necessary modernization and repairs to the electrical grid. The state attorney general has announced a third-party investigation into the response of state and local government agencies to the devastating fires.
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